During the second year of the Hai Shi Dao conflict, the Pacific Rim Forces high command inquired to the possibility of an "instructor" model VT for their training battalion commanders. Requirements for this new VT were that it be highly mobile and able to demonstrate melee combat techniques to pilot trainees. During the research phase of the Blade VT, a hybrid design of the platform, dubbed the Rapier, was drawn up that incorporated all of the Blade's maneuverability, as well as the melee combat and demonstration/instructor capabilities requested. To make the Rapier model truly unique, WM incorporated a high voltage melee weapon, the Stun Rod, capable of temporarily overloading the control systems of any VT it comes in contact with whilst deployed, resulting in the immediate shutdown of the targetted VT.

Built along most of the same design philosophies as the Blade, the Rapier exceeds its parent model in nearly all specifications. The key exception here is its balancer rating, which is slightly less. This makes it one of the most difficult VTs to properly control and as such is limited to pilots of instructor rating or better. As with all instructor materials, Rapier models are very limited in supply and generally do not see true combat action unless under dire conditions.

Rapier models are not deployed into combat arenas except under extraordinary circumstances. The most notable combat experience for a Rapier model happened during the February 2085 assault on the Ren Shei training base by Right Brothers guerilla forces. The base perimeter was overrun without warning by attacking Yellow Jackets and Siegeszugs. Three instructors were able to get into their VTs and deploy before the hangar was destroyed. Between the three pilots, there were over 14 shutdown and captured VTs as well as 9 destroyed units. Although PRF material loss was great, the base was not captured by RB forces. All three pilots received special commendations from PRF command.



"It's the unconquerable soul of man,
not the nature of the weapon he uses, that insures victory."

For high speed hit and run tactics, nothing is faster or more agile than a Rapier. The speed of this model is unsettling after piloting "standard" VTs, and its turning capabilities are unmatched by any of the standard combat models.

For the most part, the loadout of a Rapier is nearly identical to that of the Blade, with two major additions, the Stun Rod and the AVTGM, both extremely effective weapons. With the exception of indoor missions, Rapier pilots should always take the Guided Mortar as it gives them an unmatched long distance striking weapon against otherwise more durable foes. A Rapier pilot can safely circle a target at distance, using the VTs speed and agility to maintain a safe buffer, all the while pounding their target with guided shells. The 20 round capacity of the AVTGM lets a single Rapier pilot wear out the Chaff supply of any VT and still have rounds to inflict damage.

Effective use of the Stun Rod is a skill that must be honed through experience and cunning strategy. The fragility of the Rapier means that it cannot rush headlong at a target, it will be destroyed or severely damaged by the return fire and inability to dodge (to conserve battery for the melee strike). Because of this limitation, Rapier pilots must use stealth and speed to approach targets from the sides or rear, or attack an otherwise occupied enemy.

The rarity of Rapier VTs in Campaign mode cannot be overstated. Only ONCE have I seen a Rapier deployed in Campaign, whereas I have seen Earthshaker, a Regal Dress A and Regal Dress N units with some regularity.